The Trouble with Rules

September 1, 2008
Gr 3-5-In this novel, Nadie is caught up in feelings and social situations that will seem real to kids her age. Ever since she entered the upper elementary school in fourth grade, it seems as though the rules have changed: boys and girls can't be friendsat least in public. Nadie and Nick have been neighbors and best friends forever, but now they have to hide their relationship to avoid being teased. On top of that, new girl Summer comes on the scene and causes more tension between the genders as she becomes the class clown's nemesis as well as Nadie's pal. But Summer's antics and competition with Owen can be trouble, and Nadie's guilt by association causes a chain of troublesome events that make her yearn for the way things used to be. Readers will empathize with the protagonist and may see themselves in her as she struggles with peer relationships. Refreshingly, Nadie develops her own "rules" that include being mature enough to stick to and form her own friendships in the end, bringing together her entire classroom. Adults include an inspiring teacher and a supportive, at-home father."Jennifer Cogan, Bucks County Free Library, Doylestown, PA"

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